【Wakayama Guide】 What is Kumano Beef? Wakayama's Take on Wagyu!

• Table of Contents
• What is Kumano Beef?
• Certification And Traceability
• Flavor Profile, and Recommended Dishes
• Try Kumano Beef Yourself!

What is Kumano Beef?

(Dorokyo Meguri-no-Sato Kumanogawa) Kumano Beef Sukiyaki

"Kumano Beef" (Kumano-gyu) is a brand of Japanese Black Cattle (Kuroge Washu) raised and fattened in Wakayama Prefecture, shipped under "Kumano Beef" name based on local production and distribution regulations. The name "Kumano" leverages the regional brand identity associated with the Kumano-area, famous for its World Heritage Sites-- to enhance the value of Wakayama's livestock products.

In the rich natural environment of Kishu-Wakayama, these carefully raised cattle grow with the fresh water flowing from the surrounding mountains, and a diet made of entirely 100% Plant-based feed. They are nurtured with meticulous health management and plenty of care, resulting in truly exceptional, premium quality beef.
In addition, the Kumano region is part of the World Heritage Site, "Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii-Mountain Range", which features three major sacred mountain areas-- Yoshino/Omine, the Kumano Sanzan Shrines, and Koyasan--along with culturally significant landscapes such as mountains, forests, rivers, waterfalls, hot springs, and rural scenery. It is a destination that attracts many visitors from all over the world.

Certification And Traceability

To ensure the safe and reliable distribution, a certification system has been in place since December 2004. To be certified as "Kumano Beef", the meat must meet the following criteria:

① It must come from carcasses produced from castrated male or virgin female Japanese Black Cattle that have been raised for at least 24-months, with more than half of that period spent under the designated management conditions.

② The carcass must receive a grade of A3 or B3 or higher from the Japan Meat Grading Association (or be deemed appropriate by the committee).

Additionally, a 10-digit individual identification number printed on the package allows you to trace the animal's history. By entering this number into a search service, you can look up details such as the breed, gender, birthplace, and where the animal was raised.

Flavor Profile, and Recommended Dishes

(Dorokyo Meguri-no-Sato Kumanogawa) Beef Tendon Curry

Kumano Beef is frequently described as a type of Wagyu that allows diners to enjoy a rich flavor and tenderness derived from its fine marbling.

・Sukiyaki / Shabu-shabu - Use thin slices to bring out the smooth texture and the natural sweetness of the fat.
・Yakiniku - Grill briefly to enhance its fragrant aroma
・Steak - Season simply with salt and pepper to enjoy the meat's pure flavor

Kumano Beef is introduced as a "specialty product of Wakayama", suitable both as a foodie's experience, and as a gift.

Try Kumano Beef Yourself!

Here are some recommended products made with Kumano Beef that are perfect as gifts. They can be purchased on the official "Kishu Kumano no Marche" website, or at shops located at the spots listed below.

(Kishu Kumano Marche) Kumano Beef Soup

(Kishu Kumano Marche) Kumano Beef Curry (Spicy - Left) (Mild - Right)

(Kishu Kumano Marche) Kumano Beef Ramen (2 Servings)

"Kishu Kumano no Marche" Online Shop

After you've learned about Kumano Beef's dedication to quality and its strict standards, you'll definitely want to taste it for yourself!
Here are some places where you can enjoy and try Kumano Beef!